The Sixth annual Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove, the Midwest cycling event that this year is set for August 5-7, in the Chicago suburb of Elk Grove Village, Ill., has been honored with the globally-prestigious designation as a Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) race in 2011. Tour of Elk Grove was one of three U.S. bike races given UCI designation in 2011.

"We're thrilled with UCI's recognition," says Elk Grove Village Mayor Craig Johnson. "It speaks highly to how Tour of Elk Grove has firmly established itself within the global cycling community. It will also bring the international spotlight, and more world-class cyclists, to the Midwest."

In addition, Tour of Elk Grove is again on USA Cycling's prestigious Men's National Racing Calendar (NRC).

Also new in 2011: Tour of Elk Grove has added a women's three-day, three-stage NRC race.

"We're proud to now be holding 3-day, 3-stage NRC races for both men and women," adds Mayor Johnson.